Bleeding-heart

corydalis cava

Also known as: ["Rock harlequin","False celandine"]

Family: Papaveraceae Genus: Corydalis Category: Flowers

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant with distinctive heart-shaped flowers and pinnate leaves, native to Europe and parts of Asia.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Papaverales
Family: Papaveraceae
Genus: Corydalis
Botanical Name: Corydalis cava

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: woodland garden, shaded rockery, or container in a sheltered spot
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in spring or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on dead or overgrown stems.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full shade

Avoid direct midday sun; rotate plant for even growth; adjust light in winter.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.

Soil

well-draining, humus-rich, slightly alkaline soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; refresh soil every 2–3 years.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) during dormancy.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain moderate warmth during active growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.

Propagation

Methods

Division or stem cuttings with roots.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a healthy cutting or divide the plant.
  2. Prepare medium.
  3. Plant cutting/division.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Monitor for roots.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid, and bright indirect light with consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Optional, but can help with root initiation.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining mix.

Quick Tips

Use clean tools; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Snip stems just above a leaf node or bud; remove yellowing or dead leaves.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or damaged foliage to encourage healthy growth and maintain shape.

Tools

Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as needed; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size up (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).

Method

Use fresh well-draining soil; gently tease apart roots; place in a slightly larger pot.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away completely.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dormancy if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop in temperatures above 80°F (27°C).

Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and ensure adequate watering.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in winter.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Corydalis cava may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Corydalis cava can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to impaired nutrient uptake and potential plant death.

Leaf spots on Corydalis cava may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Corydalis cava due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and loss of structural integrity.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are highly sensitive to the alkaloids in Corydalis cava, which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and neurological impairment. The toxins can lead to muscle paralysis and respiratory failure, posing a serious risk to feline health.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors difficulty breathing seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots stems leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary care without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

The alkaloids in Corydalis cava are highly toxic to dogs, causing severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects. The toxins disrupt normal muscle function and can lead to respiratory failure if ingested in sufficient quantities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy muscle tremors difficulty breathing collapse
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots stems leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Corydalis cava contains alkaloids that can cause significant physiological effects, including neuromuscular blockade and respiratory depression. The plant's toxic compounds interfere with acetylcholine receptors, leading to muscle weakness and potentially life-threatening respiratory failure.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain muscle weakness respiratory distress paralysis
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots stems leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion. Keep away from children and pets. Seek immediate medical attention if poisoning is suspected.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Corydalis cava toxic to pets?

A: Yes, Corydalis cava is toxic to both dogs and cats.

Q: Does Corydalis cava require full sun?

A: Corydalis cava prefers partial shade and well-drained soil.

Q: What are the common uses of Corydalis cava?

A: Corydalis cava is primarily grown for its ornamental value due to its unique heart-shaped flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Papaveraceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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